Tourette Syndrome

Home remedies

• Soy Products : Soy products such as edamame, tofu, tempeh and textured vegetable protein contain lecithin, also known as phosphatidylcholine. Lecithin is not considered an essential nutrient; however, it may help support nervous system function, according to the New York University Langone Medical Center. The potential role of lecithin in maintaining nervous system health may make soy an appropriate food for reducing the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome. Research, however, has not conclusively established a link between soy lecithin and Tourette's management in children.
• Cobalamin-rich Foods : Cobalamin, also known as Vitamin B12, plays an important role in maintaining nervous system health. This vitamin may aid in the production of myelin, a substance that coats nerves, including those in your spinal cord and brain. This may help protect nerve cells against toxic damage, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Cobalamin's role in preventing nerve damage may help avoid worsening of Tourette's symptoms. Cobalamin is found in fish, red meats, dairy products and eggs.
• Vitamin C-Rich Foods : Vitamin C is well known for its role in maintaining immune system function. This vitamin, however, may also offer antioxidant benefits, according to Balch. Antioxidants are substances that prevent the oxidation free radical molecules and lipids in the bloodstream. Oxidized lipids and free radicals may attack healthy brain and nerve cells, which may worsen Tourette's syndrome symptoms. Boost your child's vitamin C intake by offering foods such as kale, strawberries, oranges, broccoli, apples, cayenne peppers, pomegranates and papayas.
• Tryptophan-rich Foods : Tryptophan is an amino acid that your body uses to product serotonin, a neurotransmitter chemical that helps regulate mood, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A study published in June 2005 in the "American Journal of Medical Genetics" revealed decreased levels of tryptophan and serotonin in patients with Tourette's syndrome. Foods rich in tryptophan may help correct deficiencies and reduce symptoms, although research has not conclusively established a correlation between tryptophan supplementation and Tourette's syndrome management. Peanuts, pumpkin seeds, soy products, lean poultry and dairy products are rich sources of tryptophan.
• Cannabis : Research has shown that THC found in cannabis can be beneficial in helping reduce the severity and frequency of the tic’s associated with Tourette’s. Sativa Dominant high THC strains are recommended for tourette’s patients because of their uplifting qualities. Indica strains can be very beneficial in calming down tic’s but can be too sedative at times. Because of their anti-convulsive properties, products rich in CBD and CBN can also be beneficial for Tourette’s patients. When first line treatments fail to reduce symptoms, cannabis can be an excellent treatment option for Tourette’s patients.

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12716250
• Muller-Vahl, 2013
• Abi-Jaoude, et al., 2017.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.